Online group volunteer

As a Dyscover Group volunteer you would help make a real difference to the lives of people affected by this complex communication difficulty.

2.5 hours per week
40 weeks with breaks at Christmas, Easter and during the summer

Details

Our online supported conversation groups are for people who acquired aphasia acutely, often following a stroke or brain injury, who face barriers in attending face-to-face groups, such as location, transport and other health and social needs, which can apply to volunteers too.

These weekly online groups provide support to help our beneficiaries adjust to living with aphasia, develop strategies for communicating and maximise their abilities – ultimately enabling them to live well with aphasia and actively participate in conversation with peers

A committed team of volunteers are required to support each of our weekly online groups and the small staff team that lead them.

This role would be assisting the Speech and Language Therapist (SLT) to run an online group session on Zoom to help enhance/improve the communication skills of group members with aphasia and promote their participation in conversation, from the comfort of your own home!

Volunteers will gain ‘total communication skills’, a good experience of working with and supporting people with aphasia, and an understanding of the psychosocial impact aphasia has on individuals and families.

To be an online volunteer you will need access to a PC/laptop/tablet device with a camera and speakers and a quiet, uninterrupted space within your home. Tasks and support are similar to our in-person groups but delivered in a remote capacity, and with less of a weekly time commitment.

Full training and on-going support are given and no experience is needed.

What you’ll be doing

Helping to deliver the pre-planned, structured programme of conversation topics/activities.
This may include (under the guidance of staff) facilitating a small ‘break out’ conversation group or supporting individual beneficiaries within small groups to participate.
It may include preparation of materials (i.e pre prepared pictures as conversation prompts)
You will attend a briefing session at the start of each group and a debriefing at the end led by an SLT or assistant.
Creating a warm & welcoming, inclusive aphasia friendly environment.
Mindful of health and safety and beneficiary well-being at all times.
Encourage and support members to participate and access facilities and refreshments (not applicable to online volunteers).
Promote and support sign up to other Dyscover activities and events.
Occasional communication with relatives and other agencies.
Maximise opportunities for participants to communicate independently and contribute.